Win Chivaaree
The crowd goes completely silent as Bright started to hug the redneck wood of the guitar that sat on his lap, wrapped by his arms and pressed on his chest. He ran his fingers on the fret and plucked on the strings of the guitar, all the while looking at me intently. Sweet and subtle smiles from my husband sent my heart into its hammering state against my ribcage, making me almost light-headed and giddy all the same. Everything that he did was overwhelmingly beautiful and there was nothing more that I'd rather be right now but in front of him. To be in this very specific place wherein I can lay my eyes on him, and allow my tears to trickle on my cheek. He hadn't sung anything yet, but a drop of clear salty liquid was already damping my lashes.
"🎶I remember so well the day that you came into my life. You asked for my name. You have the most beautiful smile. My life started to change, I wake up each day feeling alright. With you right by my side makes me feel things will work out just fine🎶" the quartet of strings accompanied him making the whole mood of the song just pleasantly wonderful and heart-warming. Like the song was really meant for him to sing to me during this very special day in our lives.
"🎶How did you know I needed someone like you in my life. That there was an empty space in my heart. You came at the right time in my life. I never forget how you brought the sun to shine in my life and took all the worries and fears that I had🎶" his eyes were now smiling at mine, and I wiped my tears for the umpteenth time this evening. It seemed as though they've already had a mind of their own and just wanted to beautifully cascade on my cheeks.
"🎶I guess what I'm really trying to say, it's not every day that someone like you comes my way. No words can express how much I love you🎶" Bright unshoulders the guitar from him and gave it to Film. The accompaniments played in the background, and my husband stood up to his full height before walking toward me. A large number of my emotions bubbled up inside of me making me just sniff and wipe incessantly until I felt Bright's thumb against my cheeks.
By now, it was just a piece of instrumental music playing every so softly against our ears, it was a moment that everything dulled down as our eyes were locked on each other. Bright pulled me up with him and guided my arms to snake around his neck and his own hands glided on my suit and landed on my waist. A perfect fit. Though I am pretty much sure that I was never a good dancer, my own body had synced to Bright's movement and we were swaying to the tune of the song. It was almost the same as our first official date, where we enacted something out of a movie. Only this time, it was better in all ways and forms.
Bright shifted closer to me and I had found a spot on the crook of his neck, hearing the uncharted beat of his heart letting me know that he was nervous. Slowly, his fingertips trailed on the outline of my spine before we both pulled back, and Film handed him the microphone back. Bright held my hand firmly and yet comfortably before casting those gorgeous irises unto mine eliciting a genuine smile against my lips.
"🎶How did you know I needed someone like you in my life. That there was an empty space in my heart. You came at the right time in my life. I never forget how you brought the sun to shine in my life and took all the worries and fears that I had. I guess what I'm really trying to say, it's not every day that someone like you comes my way. No words can express how much I love you🎶" the words rolled out of his tongue sending a wonderful flow of happiness in me, rippling and warming the cockles of my heart.
My husband lifted my hand gently all the way to his lips and imprinted a soft and chaste kiss on my knuckles, tainting the same pink on my cheeks, a warm and fuzzy feeling coursing through me, and a rapture of euphoria tingling in every inch of me. The crowd cheered and applauded, and before I could even snap out of my husband's handsomeness, warm and soft lips captured my own making me shut my eyes completely and smile through the kiss.
"I love you so much," Bright whispered against my lips. "Fate brought you to me, but it was us who made the move to make that fate or destiny into something more beautiful."
Indeed. Honestly, I had never questioned the existence of fate or destiny, because we were certain that it was a way for the Moon Goddess to work her ways on us. And yet, Bright was also right about the fact that we were the ones who made fate into reality. We didn't just wait for the said fate to knock on our hearts, we made a move, both of us. And look where it got us? In front of the cheering crowd that was also full of adoration and love for our relationship. The ones who had been with us from the very beginning up until this day, and would truly be with us every step of the way. The family and friends who did act as cupids long before, and still do the same thing even if we've been together for a long time.
Bright smirked, probably knowing about the things running inside my head then got close and commented. "Your serious expression is also beautiful." He wrapped one arm on my waist and pulled me closer against his chest earning a yelp of surprise, then, pressed a light and prolonged kiss once more. Sheers of joy, clapping, whistling, and eruptions of laughter filled the banquet hall before we both whirled into the crowd and waved cheekily.
After the many interruptions, the meal was served to the guests which were just family, close friends, maybe a few of Aegon's business partners that were from other packs, and some of our close classmates from the University. And tomorrow, we would be holding another celebration at the packhouse for the rest of the pack members since we could only hold a few people inside this banquet hall. Also, it would be another moment well-spent with everyone in the pack which was one of my many favorite times with them.
Bright Chivaaree
After the meal, I dragged my husband with me from table to table to mingle and socialize. Maybe snap a photo or two with them, something that Win would definitely make a scrapbook out of or perhaps just slip into an album or something. Either way, we were making our way into the large hall with the waiters being up and about, making sure that everyone was served with the dishes and needs catered.
When done with all the pleasantries, we were back at the table that was meant for us on the extremities of the hall. The kids were with Rose and Clayton, happily watching the three of them eating to their hearts' content while Win was doing the same thing. Knowing that it would take all of this time, I sliced a piece of my meat and hovered it in front of him. Win stared at me with a confused expression at first but still ate it anyway. The guests were talking in loud volumes, relaxed and satisfied when the staff appeared from nowhere and started to remove the plates that were used. The other staff moved the cake from the side where it was displayed and into that small stage in the middle of the room.
Film nodded to us and we both stood up from our seats, that was a cue that indicates that it was time for the next part of the ceremony which was cutting the cake.
And when I said three months ago, that Win shouldn't take part in any of the preparation for the wedding, especially with the cooking — that was a stern decision. At least, he actually did leave the food to the catering but I could never negotiate with him when it came to the cake. Win had been adamant to bake and decorate the cake. I guess you cannot simply take a baker away from the oven, and surely before we got ready this afternoon — he was in the kitchen, finishing up the cake's decoration. I was happy that he did what he did because right now, Win's face was just full of excitement and I'm sure that it was because his culinary abilities were about to shine.
We were getting closer to the stage and I once admired the beautifully decorated cake that my husband created earlier. Four flavorful tiers of crème caramel, almond, raspberry, and vanilla were enveloped in smooth fondant embossed with a natural treescape, a visual masterpiece that took a woodland theme to a whole new level. A vibrant array of florals and cornucopia of fondant evergreens, a faux-bois bottom layer in the truest sense, garlands of edible blossoms, and a mossy floor that created a forested landscape befitting any rustic celebration. It quite literally became the scene, earning a round of applause from the guests, and I'm not even jealous.
Win happily picked up the knife like a kid that was too ready to devour the saccharine goodness of his masterpiece and motioned me to come closer. I did and looped my fingers over his fingers that were holding the knife, wrapped one arm on his waist to pull him a tad to me, which earned a lovely smile. Under everyone's eyes, we placed the edge of the blade on the bottom tier and sliced down through the sugary pastry, and Win laughed in delight. The crowd cheered us for the umpteenth time since the beginning and by now, my husband was wrapped tightly inside my embrace making them whistle and chant for a kiss.
Of course, being the best husband that I am, my lips landed on Win's making him snicker
After the cutting ceremony, waiters served cakes to the guests which showed great appreciation for my husband's skills and made me proud of that fact. More hums of satisfaction filled the banquet hall once more until it was time for the ball. Some of the guests made their way into the floor little by little, ready to move rhythmically to music. Holding my husband's hand, we made our way into the vast floor in the midst of the crowd who paved the way until we were in the center to open the dance. A comfortable silence enveloped the place as I guide his slender hands to palm the back of my neck, and the quartet of strings played a melodious tune.
My fingers trailed the outline of his spine until my hand rested beautifully on my husband's curve on his ample waist. One hand was stretched on our side where Win gracefully placed his own hand over mine. Our eyes were locked against each other and I was lost in those lovely pools of hazel discs making the music dull. Right now, the only thing that mattered to me was staring and etching my husband's beautiful face in my mind. Appreciating every inch of it, and making sure that I wasn't dreaming and that he's really in front of me with that smile on his face, the flicker of wonders on his eyes, and love radiating from within him.
We were both so lost in our own bubble that we didn't even notice the other guests who were already dancing together with us, not until I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder revealing my sister with that pout on her face.
"Go and dance with Mom," she asked and pushed me slightly away making Win laugh from the sudden gesture. "We want to dance with Win, too, you know. Besides, you can monopolize him as much as you want after this whole thing. So, shoo," she said and waved her hands away as if shooing me. Though reluctant, I let go of Win's hand and Sky excitedly took her place in front of my husband while I made my way to where my mother was waiting.
The lovely dance went on, and I was able to do some waltz with Mom, Rose, our female friends, and of course my little sister who stole my husband just earlier. But was more taken aback when there were more females who were waiting in line to dance with my husband. I, on the other hand, mingled with some of our close relatives, downed a drink or two with cousins from other packs, wait on the side, and received blessings and congratulatory messages from Dad's business partners, and handshakes from a procession of guests. And Win was still dancing, but it was okay with me and I'm not jealous — I shouldn't be jealous because Win's mine, he had always been and no one would take him away from me.
Wait? Why is there a guy dancing with him?
My annoyance was ticked and I was ready to make my way and brush that guy's hand away from my mate, but firm hold on the shoulder kept me rooted on the spot. Though slightly agitated, I turned around and saw Man giving me a wide beam on his face and a slight shaking of his head.
"Chill, dude. You were just married minutes ago and here you are, ready to maul a guest for dancing with your husband," he said and lets my shoulder go. "So, congratulations on your marriage after many years. Are you happy?"
"Thank you, and yes I am very much happy except for the part where you stopped me from taking my husband back," I said in an angry tone making him chuckle. "I mean, why would a male dance with him? Come on, he's not even a close friend and I definitely don't know him."
"Maybe it's one of Aegon's guests," Man replied and wrapped his arm around my shoulder to keep me still. "Knowing how irritated you are seeing Win with another man, does that mean we can't dance with him?" He inquired cheekily and I shook my head. "So stingy! Remember, he's still our friend even if you two got married. But don't worry," he paused and cast a glance at his mate. "I won't because I'd prefer dancing with Type over anyone else."
Man gave me a pat on the back and pushed me lightly towards the direction of the dance floor. Confused, I looked at him and he gestured for me to go away and snatch my husband. This time, I did make my way back to the dance floor where Win was still happily dancing with the male. Just when I was about to reach them, the male lets my husband go and offered him a warm smile before turning in my direction and congratulating me on our marriage. He left and my hands found my husband's waist once more, and Win snaked his hands around my neck whilst studying my expression.
"Babe, we just said our I do's earlier and here you are with that very evident jealousy plastered all over your face," he swayed in tune to my own movement, and by now, I tightened my hold on him and brought him closer to me. I imprinted a soft kiss on his forehead before landing one on the tip of his nose, and a chaste one on his lips making him giggle right after.
"I wasn't jealous," I retorted and he hummed knowingly. "What were you two talking about anyway? And why did you let him hold you?"
"He's one of Aegon's guests, babe. And he's getting married in six months' time so he wanted to ask if I could make their wedding cake because someone told him that I made ours. So you don't need to worry about anything, and just so you know, I agreed to his offer and he'd also be hiring Film to be their wedding planner. Cool, right? Your husband's going to be a real baker now."
"I don't mind though, as long as he keeps his hand in his pocket and does not touch what is mine," I leaned in for another kiss. "I don't like it when someone else holds you, peaches. You might not know it, but everyone who lays their eyes on you falls in love almost instantly. And I, your husband, mate, soul bound, soulmate, and lifetime partner don't like that at all."
Win laughed and slapped my chest gently, then pecked my lips after recovering from that little fun that he had. I know that he wouldn't let himself be taken away from me, but it's never wrong to put up some barricade around mine. I do trust him, it's the people around us that I am not very much trusting - not after what happened to us years ago. Besides, Win's just too tempting that no one could deny being close to him, and that bothers me, a lot.
"Get your thoughts out of the gutter, will you? I'm here standing in front of you and yet your mind's elsewhere. C'mere and give your husband a warm bear hug, or werewolf hug, you know what, just hug me."
"I'd gladly," with that, Win was already inside my embrace and wonderful tingling sensations were running in every part of my body.
More chats and dances happened across the vast hall, and there were voices of relaxed mingles echoing inside while we all enjoyed the rest of the night. Amazingly, the whole ceremony was a blast and if given a chance, I'd definitely marry Win over and over again.
The celebration ended around almost eight in the evening, and everyone had retreated back to their homes. We did, too, after making sure Film gave us a cue to leave the rest to her and her staff. We were inside the car together with the almost-sleeping twins who had been drained from all the energy that they have from running around earlier. Once we arrived at the packhouse, our friends were still there to wait for us and we waved some of our goodbyes before climbing into our home.
When all of the adrenaline from the whole day downed, Win and I found ourselves heading to the twin's room to give them their baths. Nanon and Prim were obedient enough to listen to my husband, while I was inside the bathroom preparing the bathtub and filling it with their favorite toys. Once ready, all three of them went inside and we were soon making bubbles, playing with their ducks, and laughing our stomachs out until they were ready to step out of the tub. Win took Nanon to his arms and wrapped him with his favorite Spiderman towel, while I wrapped my little girl with her favorite Pooh towel.
We stayed a few minutes more right after dressing them in their pajamas and watching them fall asleep on their separate beds. I turned their lampshade and the baby monitor before we both left them in their deep slumber, and into our own bedroom right next to the twin's room. Once inside, Win sprawled himself on the bed making me shake my head before sitting right next to him and unbuttoning his dress shirt.
"Tired?"
"A little," Win responded. "But I'm happy because everything is done. The three months of nerve-wracking preparations, constant contact with Film, almost having some unnecessary banters with the girls, and not spending time with the twins — it all ended, and the outcome was truly marvelous."
"Indeed," I stood up to my full height and headed to the dresser to grab Win's towel that I handed to him. "Take a shower and I'll go right after you."
Win headed to the bathroom while I found myself on the couch looking intently at my wedding ring — a beautiful reminder of my undying commitment to my husband from now until the end of my days. I took it out for a moment and read the engraving, Mated Together in cursive before slipping it back into my finger and held against my chest. A smile curled on my lips as I recalled the wonderful holidays that we had spent together during our teenage days. The beginning of our weird relationship was because of my testosterone going nuts. The painful one-week break-up that occurred, and how I won him over. Our fight against the rogues and knowing about Win's true identity. The shock of his pregnancy and the first time we saw our twins after his operation. A truly weird proposal and him saying yes to that and now — our marriage.
Everything just fell into place just as it was supposed to be, and how those things made our commitment and adoration for each other even stronger. That those words engraved on our ring fitted perfectly in our relationship. From the day we were born, we have been mated together by the Moon Goddess, and I wouldn't change anything about it. And that even if we weren't mated, we'd still find our way back into each other's arms. In my case, it had always been Win from the start even before I knew that he was my mate.
I was so engrossed with so many thoughts in my head that I didn't even notice Win coming out of the bathroom, not until his lips landed on my forehead making me snap my eyes open. This time, it was he who was unbuttoning my dress shirt while I stared at his face, making sure that he never leaves my sight while I appreciate the beauty in front of me.
"Did I ever tell you?" Win asked and glanced at me.
"Tell me about what?"
"That time, when I fell into a coma, your voice was the only thing that had kept me going."
"Really?" I asked and cupped his chin, his eyes were now on mine.
"Yes. My mind and body wanted to give up but my heart didn't," he said and placed my hand on his chest where his heart is. "And I'm happy that I didn't let them win over my heart, because I wouldn't be here with you right now as your husband. So, thank you for being the guiding voice that pulled me out of that darkness. And thank you for not giving up on me."
"Thank you for fighting, bum-bum. And I promise that I'd dedicate my life to loving you and you alone, together with our little monsters," I added and imprinted a peck on his temple. "I love you so much, Win. And I'd continue to love you until infinity finds its end."
"I love you, Bright. And I'd love you in ways that only I could do, and stop being jealous because no one could take me away from you."
Win smiled and palmed the back of my neck to pull me closer to him, letting our lips meet before we both pulled away with the burst of emotions glowing on both of our existence. Truly, Win and I were mated together from the day that we were born to infinity and beyond.
A/N. Hello, it's been a while since my last A/N. Well, I did leave one from the previous chapter but it was just the words, To Be Continued, to let you know that I'd be adding another chapter after that one.
I keep on saying that we only had a few chapters left before, and in the last one, I said that I only have two left - but I ended up making another one because I cannot simply stop the story on the wedding ceremony. Right? Well, I hope you enjoyed this bonus chapter and hopefully stay with me until the end. ('Cause we're almost there 🥺)
And I'd be dropping specials for the Christmas season because I can and I want to. 🤭🤭
The next update would be the final Epilogue, and it's already drafted a long time ago. Then I'd publish the characters, and then maybe an ending A/N. Then the Prologue of the next story (I hope you'd still read it even if it isn't BW, just give it a try 🙏🏻)
Wedding Planner and Contract Killer are still on-going, not going to drop it anytime soon. 🙅🏻♀️ For CK, it would be a little slow update because I'd have to do a few research here and there, so just be patient with it.
I don't have specific schedules for publishing, I'd just write and publish when I want to. Please stay with me. 😅
By the way, Wattpad did that contest thingy about #InstaXStillsToLife and so I published one in my profile entitled 방탄소년단 • 𝐼𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑋𝑆𝑡𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑠𝑇𝑜𝐿𝑖𝑓𝑒 just because I got nothing else to do earlier. So, if you have time, please read it for me (?), I'd appreciate that a lot. 🙏🏻 Though it's too shameful to ask such a thing from you guys, I just want to share with you a part of my quarantine life and the reason for my writers' block recently. 🙍🏻♀️
Anyways, thank you for reading this episode, and see you guys on the next update. Okay? Love you my hoomans! Stay safe! Wear your masks! And be healthy! Mua 😘
Grace💛